On May 19, 2026, the European Parliament will host the inaugural European Order of Merit ceremony in Strasbourg, recognizing key figures who have significantly contributed to the integration and promotion of EU values. The ceremony is scheduled to take place at 11:30 AM in the Parliament’s hemicycle and will be streamed live, allowing a global audience to partake in the event. Among the distinguished attendees are notable European leaders such as Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of Germany, and Lech Wałęsa, the former President of Poland. Other esteemed laureates include Jean-Claude Trichet, former President of the European Central Bank, and Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova. Each honoree will address the assembly, sharing insights from their experiences in advancing European unity. The ceremony is not only a celebration of individual achievements but also part of broader commemorations marking the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. Post-ceremony, select laureates will engage in press briefings and a special panel discussion at La Rotonde in Parliament’s Churchill building, providing media representatives exclusive access to the thoughts and reflections of Europe’s leading proponents of integration and cooperation. Post navigation Zelenskyy, Palantir CEO Confer